VOLUME XXXV No 4 22nd March, 2018
DATES TO REMEMBER
FROM THE HEAD OF COLLEGE
MARCH 25th March Celebrations
25th
Western Good Friday - Public Holiday School
30th
closed Daylight Saving – Turn Clocks back 1 hour
31st
APRIL P &F Palm Sunday Lunch
1st
Western Easter Monday - Public Holiday School
2nd
closed – Holy Monday Holy Tuesday – students return to School
3rd
Holy Wednesday
4th
Easter Focus Assembly JS – 11:30am-1:00pm Early Dismissal 1:00pm K-12 Holy Thursday – School closed
5th
Orthodox Good Friday – School closed
6th
Orthodox Easter Sunday
8th
Orthodox Easter Monday – School closed
9th
Students return
10th
Term ends for students and staff
13th
Anzac Day (office closed)
25th
Anzac Day at St Spyridon Church
28th
Staff Development Day
30th
MAY Students return – Winter uniform National Schools Event - Melbourne School photographs JS
1
st
th
9 – 11
th
14 th
Naplan Yrs 3, 5, 7 & 9
15 – 17
School photographs SS
22
Kindergarten 2019 Information Morning
23
ISA Cross Country Carnival SS
30
th
th
Please note that the next Newsletter will be published on 13th April due to the Easter Holiday.
nd rd th
Mrs E. Stefanou-Haag
K-12 NEWS All students are expected to be present until the conclusion of the program at approximately 4.15pm. 9.45am: Years 7 and 12 to meet their teachers in Primary School playground. 10.20am: Years 5 and 6 to meet their teachers in Mary Hamer Quadrangle. The students will represent the Junior School in St Spyridon Church for the memorial service. 1.00pm: All students (Year 1-12) are to assemble behind our school banner in the assigned area at Martin Place. The teachers will assume responsibility of their class. Parents are asked to keep their distance whilst the students march to the Opera House. On arrival at the Opera House, the students will sit with their teacher in the designated area until the conclusion of the formalities which will be at approximately 4.15pm. No child may leave before this time. At the conclusion parents are to collect their child from their Roll Teacher. Please ensure your child’s name is crossed off. Students are to wear their summer uniform with blazer and (Junior School) hat. Shoes are to be polished, buttons on blazers, shirts and dresses attached and hem sewn. Replace any items of uniform that are worn of faded. WINTER UNIFORM REMINDER
25TH MARCH CELEBRATIONS
Students will be wearing their Winter Uniform at the commencement of Term 2, 1st May. Please ensure you have all the items you need.
REMINDERS
EARLY DISMISSAL
On Sunday 25th March we will commemorate Greek Independence Day and The Annunciation of The Virgin Mary.
Please note that on Wednesday 4th April, the students will be dismissed at 1pm. For those that travel on the Private Buses, this means your child will arrive at their destination earlier.
This is a compulsory event for all students in Year 1-6 and optional for Kindergarten. Students have receive a specific bulletin about this. 2
PARISH NEWS CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR PARISH GOLF COMMITTEE “We are so grateful to the St Spyridon Golf Day committee and to the wider St Spyridon Parish Community for coming together once again to raise much-needed funds for our Hospital. This is the 27th year of a wonderful and long-standing partnership and we look forward to continuing this well into the future. The Golf Day raised an impressive $35,000 to help invest in the Bright Alliance building, where innovative research and the best clinical care occurs to improve child health across NSW and beyond.” Nicola Stokes, CEO Sydney Children’s Hospital Foundation
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P&F NEWS Fundraising is the P & F Committee’s number one purpose and we do this through fun, varied and engaging events. Since all the flyers of our upcoming events are now posted in the portal and our School’s social media channels, we, as a Committee, thought it was a good opportunity to reach out to our greater St Spyridon community for donations to help these events have the best chance of raising maximum funds for our school. Donations have a multiplier effect – they raise three to ten times their value for the school. A large chocolate Easter bunny brings joy to the Junior School children while raising hundreds in $1 raffle tickets. The chance to win an iPad raises thousands during a Walk-a-thon, Father’s Day hampers raise hundreds in ticket sales at a breakfast. Internal events have a lot of the food and time donated, so all funds received go to the School. Even donations of ribbons, candles, and boxes means the funds raised for lambathes go towards equipment and facilities for our children at both the Junior and Senior School. We are your committee and we look to everyone for new ideas to make our events fun and worthwhile for the participants. Parents and friends often ask how they can help if they cannot volunteer their time. Attending the events is a great way to contribute, but if you wanted to do more then, this is how you can help the committee this term: Junior School Easter Raffle - More than one hamper/prize means more winners at the Junior School. Donations of quality chocolate or Easter holiday fun vouchers would be greatly appreciated. Mothers Night Out – Donations for raffle prizes needed: small to large, reach out to your connections for pamper vouchers, feminine items especially highly sort after, unique, designer products, hard-to-get, or popular items. Please contact our President Angela Kasmas on 0407 061 940 with any ideas or find one of our P & F committee members who can answer any questions you may have. There is also a volunteer form at the end of this newsletter as well as flyers about the upcoming events. Thanks in advance for your contributions and participation. Desma Spyridopoulos and Leslie Paparsenos P&F Secretaries
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JUNIOR SCHOOL REPORT A new website has been created to assist parents with encouraging a healthy lifestyle. You may want to take a look. www.makehealthynormal.nsw.edu.au
EASTER FOCUS ASSEMBLY The Junior School Easter Focus Assembly will be held at 11:30am on Wednesday 4th April in the Church Hall. We encourage all our family and friends to join us.
WAVERLEY WAR HOSPITAL VISIT
MEMORIAL
LLW @ SCHOOL Our wonderful commemorative tradition has continued this year as well…
Late last year a group of interested parents and staff formed the Live Life Well@School committee to promote opportunities that support student health and wellbeing.
On the occasion of the commemoration of the 25th March, 15 boys and girls from Year 6 visited our Greek Senior Citizens at Waverley War Memorial Hospital to celebrate Greek Independence Day & The Annunciation all together. Our students’ chanting and singing brought tears to the eyes of our παππούδες και γιαγιάδες who were overwhelmed with pride and joy. They noted how much they look forward to this event every year as our students never fail to perform their best and remind them of the significance of the day for Greek people everywhere in the world.
Mrs C. Alexandratos, Mrs Durrant, Mr Magafa, Mrs Paparsenos, Mrs Stamos, Mrs D. Spyridopoulos, Mr Theochari, Mrs Zeiderman, Miss Galanis, Miss Wright, along with our P & F President Mrs Kasmas, and chair of this committee Dr Rigas, have worked on several projects. Some achievements have included:
The inclusion of healthier options in the Canteen leading to a Green Tick of approval from the Canteen Association of NSW. Crunch n Sip now conducted across K – 4. Vegie Patch established by Year 4.
Και του χρόνου, λοιπόν!
We are in the process of looking at the ice creams and ice blocks to include healthier options and at the inclusion of Gluten free options. Look out for our 2018 projects: Year 6 Lunch Box, Sports Fun Day. We thank all the parents and grandparents who have volunteered to assist in the canteen as this has allowed for greater options in the canteen. Even if you can spare one hour once a year, we would be grateful for your assistance. Did you know that the NSW government is helping kids get active by providing a $100 voucher for students enrolled in a sport or fitness program? Visit: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/appl y-active-kids-voucher for more information.
Mrs A. Gambierakis Modern Greek Coordinator 5
The following students qualified and will take part in CIS Swimming Carnival trials which will take place at the Olympic Park Aquatic Centre on Thursday 22nd March:
JUNIOR SCHOOL SPORTS PROGRAM It has been a very busy Term One. We have had our team selections. Our Cricket, Basketball, Netball, Futsal and AFL teams have begun their early morning or after school training sessions in preparation for the competitions coming up.
We had our Swimming Carnival at Botany Pool on Friday 2nd March. It was another successful carnival, thanks to our staff and parents who assisted on the day.
Congratulations to the Nemeans, the winning house for 2018!
2018 Age Champions: GIRLS 8 Years 9 Years 10 Years 11 Years 12 Years BOYS 8 Years 9 Years 10 Years 11 Years 12 Years
Antonia Pizanis Zoe Leondaris Bianca Soumilas Catherine Coutts Angelique Drakakis
Catherine Coutts – 11 Years Girls 50m Freestyle, Breaststroke, Butterfly, Backstroke and 100m Freestyle. Angelique Drakakis - 12-13 Years Girls 50m Butterfly. Connor Kristallis - 11Years Boys 50m Breastroke. Bianca Soumilas - 10 Year Girls, 8-10 Year 50m Breastroke & Junior Girls Relay. Georgia Karatasos - Junior Girls Relay. Vakina Cilmi – Junior Girls Relay. Krystal Preketes- Junior Girls Relay.
Catherine Coutts was also Age Champion at the ASISSA carnival and broke the record for 11 Years 50m Butterfly.
John Missos Kostan Papadopoulos Mitchell Coutts & Maximilian Economou Zane Rallis & Phillip Preketes Gabriel Leondaris
Broken record: RELAY TEAM
On Thursday 15th March, the ASISSA Football trials took place at Queens Park and students who play Representative Football were invited to attend. The standard was very high and there was over 40 students trying out. Two from St Spyridon College were selected. Congratulations to Stephen Varvaritis and Peter Bebonis from Year 6. They will be representing ASISSA at the CIS Football Gala day on the 9th April.
The following week our relay teams attended Swim Squad training sessions with the Senior School at All Sorts Leisure Centre in Alexandria in preparation for the ASISSA Swimming Carnival. We thank Mr Kaldis and Ms O’Shea for inviting the Junior School students along and giving them this opportunity. We received very positive feedback from parents and students. On Tuesday 6th March was the ASISSA Swimming Carnival. Congratulations to all our students who participated.
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We finished the lesson by finding out our Pi Day. We typed out birthdate into www.mypiday.com and it calculated where that number sequence appears in Pi. My birthdate 03.01.07 was the 57361st digit in Pi. Steven Paras from 5A found that his birthdate appeared as the 5890262nd digit in Pi. Wow! Today’s lesson was thoroughly enjoyable and I’m already looking forward to the 14th of March 2019.
Upcoming Sport events this term:
21st March - Paul Kelly Cup AFL 22nd March - CIS Swimming Carnival 26th March - Greek Orthodox Swimming Carnival at Botany Pool. (Host – St Spyridon College) 27th March- Interschool Year 6 Cricket Gala Day 29th March- ASISSA Netball Trials. Best of luck to Catherine Coutts, Isabelle Zeiderman, Fotini Tsakirios, Julia Costa and Ioanna Panayi 9th April- CIS Football. Best of luck Stephen Varvaritis and Peter Bebonis.
Mrs C. Diavatiotis Sport Coordinator WORLD PI DAY 2018 THE WELSH CONNECTION
On Wednesday, March 14th, Year 5 and Year 6 celebrated World Pi Day during our Mathematics lessons. It was interesting to hear from Mr Davies, a Welshman teaching Mathematics in a Greek school, that the first person to use the Greek letter pi and the symbol π, was in fact a Welsh mathematician,
Dimitra Kasmas 6P
William Jones (1675-1749). YEAR 6 CHARACTER POETRY (Based on the published poetic verse of the Australian author, C.J. Dennis)
We briefly watched a video on an artist called Martin Kryzwinski who found artistic beauty in the randomness of Pi.
The Lawyer I’d like to be a lawyer, because I go to court, Calling out, “Your Honour, let the gaol time be nought!” But even if I don’t win, at least I know I fought, And all the firms’ associates will get to be taught, A lesson to be learnt is; money isn’t bought! But I wouldn’t be a lawyer if…… Criminals aren’t caught. Would you? Alexi Pambris 6P
We made our own piece of Pi Art to highlight how Pi is an Irrational Number.
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I didn’t have time to play. Would you? Katerina Dimitrakopoulos 6P
The Netballer I want to be a netballer, it’s a team game I’m willing to play, Calling out, “Pass to me,” and shooting at every game, I love playing Goal Attack; having fun, and screaming “YAY!” Netball is one of my passions, and I always want to play. But I wouldn’t be a netballer if, I fell over every game. Would you? Isabelle Zeiderman 6M
Running I’d like to be running, with the fastest speed, Running on the track, causing a stampede, I’ve finished my race, I need a treat, I go to the place, I most like indeed, When I win my race, my friend make me a necklace with the prettiest beads, But I wouldn’t be a runner if, I were to trip and bleed. Would you? Ioanna Panayi 6M
The Doctor I would like to be a doctor, and help everyone I see, Calling out, “Next please,” and shouting out with glee. I’d give out check-ups, and hear people yell, “Yippee!” I’d bandage up arms, and check out their knees. Maybe I’d work day to night, to help those who plead. But I wouldn’t be a doctor if, There would be disgusting things to see. Would you? Tara Zinopoulos 6M
The Cop I would like to be a cop, and tell people what’s right, Calling out to villains, with all my might, But when the community is unsafe, I would fight, And when the wrong happens, I will tell what’s right. Cops are big and powerful, with lots of might. But I wouldn’t be a cop if, I had to work at night. Would you? Harry Hatzi 6M
The Dancer I’d like to be a dancer, to step and twirl around, Calling out, “Step left, step right,” without making a sound. I’d try my best and work hard, to be competition bound, But always scared to hit the ground, Winning competitions, so I can be crowned. But I wouldn’t be a dancer if, The audience always frowned! Would you? Fotini Tsakirios 6M
The Mossy Wall I’d like to be a Mossy Wall, awaiting a key, Calling out, “Find the mossy brick that will open thee”, Well, living in a mossy temple, everything I see, As explorers pass by, trying to open me, Someday I will be opened by he or she, But I wouldn’t be a Mossy Wall if, I wasn’t free, Would you? Andrew Dalessis 6P
The Doctor I’d like to be a doctor, and save people every day, Calling out in a loud voice, “I'm on my way!” With shelves of needles and bandages, checking people as they lay, Once I'd cured people, I would say, “Hip, hip hooray!” But I wouldn’t be doctor if…
Miss D. McCarthy English Coordinator Mrs A. Synesios Principal Junior School
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SENIOR SCHOOL REPORT side exposed to heat and the other exposed to cold. Through this experiment we learned about T.E. Generators and their practical application. We also learned not to challenge Mr Karras in Physics as he effortlessly proved why he is the king of Physics.”
PARENT FORUM Year 11 2018, for Year 10 students and their Parents A Parent Forum will be held on Tuesday, 10th April, 2018, SPACe, 6.00pm – 7.00pm.
Paul Bessiris and Andrew Karaniki – Year 10 students
To be discussed: - Progression Through Schooling Year 10-12 - Preparing for the Preliminaries Course - Year 10 Subject Selection for Stage 6 - NESA Requirements for the HSC - Careers Pathways.
“Forensics, body, blood, evidence… Murder? On Monday the 5th of March, Year 10 had a Science excursion at UTS compiled of 3 different workshops. We discovered the fields of Forensics, Microbiology and Physics. In Forensics we learnt about fingerprints and blood placement and used them to analyze a crime scene. In Microbiology we used a microscope to differentiate different causes of sickness. In Physics we looked at how various metals require heat and cool temperatures to measure volts on the multimeter. The highest score was 275 volts. We also had a talk about the numerous types of Sciences and how to perform them.
A reminder to Year 10 that the Expression of Interest forms to progress to Years 11 and 12 at St Spyridon College are due to me at the end of this Term, Friday, 13th April, 2018. All students are expected to attend the Parent Forum with their parents. Students may wear appropriate casual clothes. SCIENCE EXCURSION TO THE UTS
Overall, this day was a highly enjoyable day, we all learnt a lot and would love to take part again.
On Monday the 5th of March, Year 10 visited University Technology, Sydney (UTS) and participated in three activities related to Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Irene Kourliafti, Marissa Diakoumis and Sasha Douglas – Year 10 students
Students had the opportunity to visit the SuperLab at UTS and they learned how a modern laboratory operates. All students enjoyed conducting the various experiments and investigated some applications of specific areas of Science that are used in everyday life. Student’s impressions of the Science Excursion to the UTS: “One of the three workshops we participated in was Physics, where we had the opportunity to test out a thermoelectric generator until we achieved the highest reading with the equipment provided. A thermoelectric generator is a small device which generates electricity by having on 9
Mr A. Karras Science and Physics Teacher DESIGN AND TECHNOLOY EXCURSION TO THE POWERHOUSE MUSEUM On Tuesday 13th March, Year 11 Design and Technology, along with Mrs Hatzopoulos, attended the SHAPE Exhibition at the Powerhouse Museum. The day consisted of seminars with NESA where we got to hear industry professionals speak about what makes good design as well as how design can sustain economy, environment and benefit society. We also had the opportunity to see the exhibition of 2017 top HSC Major Work Projects. 2017 HSC students were there to tell us about their projects, the difficulties they had and also what they learnt and achieved through the Design and Technology HSC course. Overall, it was a beneficial experience as it has further prepared us for our own HSC Major Work for Design and Technology.
Mrs A. Katsogiannis Principal Senior School Deputy Head of College
Vivienne Hatzigiakoumis - Year 11 student
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PREFECT PROFILE Name: Nicholas Kollias Number of years at St. Spyridon College: 13 years Previous Leadership Roles: Junior School Captain 2013, SRC, Peer Support Leader, Sports Captain, Prefect. Subjects I am currently studying: English Advanced, Mathematics, PDHPE, Food Technology, Biology, Modern Greek Continuers completed in Year 11. Hobbies: Any type of sport, reading, hanging out with family and friends. My Future Aspirations: Physiotherapy, Sports Science, Teaching. My Role Models: Our Lord Jesus Christ, Grandparents, Parents, Coaches. Favourite Quote: “Desire and effort must come from you. God will provide the power and the result” St. Paisios of Mt Athos. My proudest moment: Representing St. Spyridon College in high jump at the Australian All Schools Championships, Canberra, 2016. One Student Principle that is most meaningful to me and why: Student Principle 9: We respond to the difficulties of life with patience, dignity and faith, never fearing to start again. If a leader fears to start again then there is no opportunity for growth or learning. It was a great honour for me to represent St. Spyridon College in Athletics especially at a state and national level. It has taught me to compete in sport with dignity and patience and not to be afraid when something doesn’t go to plan. High jump, like many sports, has taught me a lot about myself. It has taught me the importance of setting goals and training hard to achieve them, and when these goals have been achieved, to raise the bar higher and to strive for the next height, the next challenge in my life’s journey. It has taught me that with faith in God, He is the one who gives us the strength to start again and to never give up. Values such as love, patience, kindness, forgiveness and honesty are qualities every leader should struggle to implement in their personal life. Strong values, I believe, make a strong leader.
Congratulations to Nicholas who on Sunday 18th March competed in the 2018 Australian Junior Championships in the Men High Jump Under 18 at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre. Nicholas, who was representing NSW, achieved 4th place in Australia, jumping 1.95m. This is his best placing so far, an outstanding achievement.
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PREFECT PROFILE Name: Rhea Tsimboukis Number of Years at the College: 13 Previous Leadership Roles: Peer Support Leader Year 10, SRC Year 11. Subjects I am currently studying: English Advanced, English Extension, Mathematics, Legal Studies, PDHPE, Classical Greek, Modern Greek Continuers (completed year 11). Hobbies: Playing sport (netball and basketball), dancing, listening to music, spending time with friends and family and reading. My future aspirations: I wish to study Law at university. My role models: I am not inspired by one particular person, but by people who work hard, have strong convictions and never give up. My favourite quote: ‘Only you can control your future’ – Dr. Seuss My proudest moment: Being elected as College Sports Captain and winning netball in Perth at Greek Orthodox. One student principle that is meaningful to me and why: Student Principle 3: We work together to achieve a school community whose distinguishing characteristics are those of friendship, compassion and decency. I have chosen this principle because I believe it defines how St Spyridon College encourages students to value friendship, compassion and decency. The principle highlights that these characteristics can only be achieved when working together as a community. It encourages every student to take an active role in the community, by practicing our Greek Orthodox faith, engaging with studies, helping make a difference in the community, but most importantly, showing small acts of kindness and gratitude every day. The school provides a nurturing environment for every student to achieve friendship, compassion and decency in their personal world. Our Greek Orthodox faith, which we are immersed in at the College, guides every student to show compassion. For example, Jesus told a parable about a man who fell among thieves and was rescued by a ‘good Samaritan’ who had compassion for him, even though the man was a different race and creed. We learn here that we should treat others the way we should want to be treated, and to ‘be good to one another’. At its core, I believe the principle tells us that being a decent person is something that everyone can aspire to.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL REPORT RESPECT AND UNDERSTANDING DAY Acceptance, Respect, Peace and Love were some of the positive qualities that we Year 9 students learnt more about on the 14th of March, at the Respect and Understand Day (RUA Day). Our school group of 20, made up of SRC’s and other Year 9’s, had the opportunity to visit the Jewish Museum, where this special day was held. There were schools from varying cultural and religious backgrounds, some of which included: Jewish, Catholic and Muslim Schools. It was an exciting day, packed with activities where mixed groups, consisting of representatives from each of the eight schools, were created. In these groups we discussed and shared ideas about our world and in the process learnt about and from each other, gaining a deeper appreciation of the diversity within our rich multicultural society and our schools. Through this we also understood that while people can be different in some ways, they can also be a powerful force when united in the many beliefs that we share. We also had the opportunity to give a presentation about our Schools, our beliefs and our values. This further deepened our understanding of each other. Everyone who attended appreciated the RUA day, as it was most definitely a day that none of us will forget.
By Maria-Angela Patsalis, Taylor Marinos and Anastasia Gikas
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PEER SUPPORT Last week students explored the topics of TEAM BUILDING AND GROUP DYNAMICS as well as DECISION MAKING, PROBLEM SOLVING & SELF REFLECTION. Within these topics were a host of activities that aimed at encouraging Year 7 students to think outside the box and develop teamwork skills. Lots of movement, creative things, cooperation and resulting laughter ensued. It was wonderful to see everyone not only work together towards achieving a common goal but also the healthy competition that developed.
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NATIONAL DAY FOR ACTION AGAINST BULLYING AND VIOLENCE
EARTH HOUR 2018
Last Friday the Senior School along with other Australian schools across the country stood united in support of the NATIONAL DAY FOR ACTION AGAINST BULLYING AND VIOLENCE. The SRC’s addressed the assembly on this issue and reminded everyone that a world without bullying is a world full of love and understanding where everyone makes a concerted effort to “Be Good to One Another”.
Every year, on the 24th of March, millions of people around the world in more than 7,000 cities in over 180 countries take part in this amazing global conservation movement. People do a wide range of things around the hour to show they care about our planet’s future. Millions choose to mark Earth Hour by going ‘lights out’ for 60 minutes at 8.30pm – a symbolic show of solidarity.
SRC’s were asked to imagine a world free from bullying and their statements were written in the speech bubbles on a wall in the courtyard area.
On Friday 23rd of March 2018, thousands of students from across Australia, including ours, will celebrate Earth Hour by taking part in Earth Hour Schools’ Day. Each year, special Earth Hour inspired events are held. The SRC will be organising the days’ activities and will play a role in encouraging classes to switch off lights during EVERY period 4 (St Spyridon Earth Hour), as a symbol of our ongoing support of this important global movement. WHAT IS #CONNECT2EARTH?
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TECH TALK FRIDAY #Connect2Earth is a challenge to switch off Electricity during Earth Hour, join the #Connect2Earth conversation and reconnect with the natural environment. Doing this will amplify the national conversation on climate change.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN KIDS HAVE NO SCREEN TIME RULES Last week ‘Good Morning America’ and a ‘Current Affair’ ran a powerful story about the intense pull of screens and why having and enforcing limits are so important ... and hard. If there is any way you can make the time to watch the 3-minute video with your children or teens — you will be so glad you did.
Why the Wi-Fi Symbol in this year’s promotional posters? Did you know that Wi-Fi was invented in Australia? Since then, the Wi-Fi connect symbol has become instantly recognisable. Whether it’s at a cafe, the airport, or at the shops, we look out for this symbol whenever we want to connect to a Wi-Fi network.
The video shows what happens when a couple allows their four children, ages 6 to 11, to have as much screen time as they want for 48 hours. The children often used more than one screen at the same time, and the producers counted all screens used when calculating times—so 3 hours with two screens going would be counted as 6 hours. The total time on screens for each of the kids came to 16, 29, 35 and 46 hours over the course of the two days. On the night when the experiment finished, and the parents took their devices away, the kids had major meltdowns.
Earth Hour hopes to spark conversations about what it takes to protect our planet. And it starts by connecting to nature. The Wi-Fi symbol alongside our iconic species symbolise our connection with Australia’s spectacular nature: the Great Barrier Reef, koalas in our forests, our beautiful bushland, and the marine life in the Antarctic.
Watch the video by opening the hyperlink below http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Family/48-hourscreen-time-experiment-kidslimits/story?id=53410728
A guide to reducing Australia’s environmental footprint Australia has one of the world’s largest ecological footprints per capita. If the rest of the world lived like we do in Australia, we’d need the regenerative capacity of over three and a half earths to sustain our demands on nature. This ecological footprint is mostly made up of carbon emissions from electricity use, transport, direct fuel combustion from fossil fuel refining, processing and mining, as well as cropland and grazing for the production of food. It is clearly unsustainable in the long term.
Knowing which rules, limits, and guidelines to have can be confusing for parents, and then comes the work of implementing them consistently which can be exhausting. The fear of being judged as “lazy and too lax” or “overly controlling” prevents many parents from telling others the rules they are trying to use with their children. The reporter who was behind the story on ‘Good Morning America’ herself stated in her blog “I have been covering and studying this issue (tech) for a long time. As a result, I am super strict with my 10-year-old twins: No screens at all during the week and only TV shows on the big screen on the weekends. No YouTube, no tablet games, no Xbox or PlayStation in our house. My two exceptions are planes and hospitals.” And to my point, she adds:
So what can we do about it? 1: Be conscious consumers 2: Use less energy 3: Join the Renewable Energy Revolution 4: Join a Conversation… 1+ 1 + 1 voices = many 5: Talk to local politicians and advocate for good environmental policies
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“This is the first time I’m writing about what our family does because I don’t want to seem judgmental; there are a million different types of kids, family situations, and techniques for parenting.” If the video motivated you to rethink the limits in your home, visit: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/media/ Pages/default.aspx?utm_source=TTT+Pledge&u tm_campaign=3f980f7599EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_03_06&utm_medi um=email&utm_term=0_18055cc28c3f980f7599159956729&mc_cid=3f980f7599&mc_eid=6d0 ce429c4. If you have rules, but they need a refresh, now could be that time. For this week’s Tech Talk Friday, below are some ideas to get a conversation starter about limits:
The First Prize only of the Easter Raffle will be drawn on Thursday, 28th March. This is to enable the winner to visit the Easter Show over the long weekend. The remaining prizes, ‘chocolate hampers’, will be drawn at the end of term, after Orthodox Easter. Please continue to bring your sold tickets and money until that time.
Why is tech so absorbing? In the ‘Good Morning America’ video can you relate to how much the kids were on tech when things were rule-free? Do you think there should be spaces with no tech devices? Which ones? What times should tech be turned off? If you are a youth, do your friends ever mention the rules they have in their homes? If you are an adult, do your parent friends ever mention the tech guidelines and rules they have?
YEAR 7 STUDENT WITH A BIG HEART Congratulations to Peter Kotsis of Year 7 who was invited to attended a special ceremony on Thursday hosted by the Governor General Peter Cosgrove at Government House, Sydney. This was a formal acknowledgement of his fund raising efforts last year (part of “the schools aid trust” initiative) for St Basils Nursing Home at Lakemba. Well done Peter!!
TIN CAN APPEAL AND EASTER RAFFLE The Tin Can Appeal collection is well underway. Thank you to all who have donated. We would like to remind everyone who has not brought in any non-perishable food items to do so by Monday. Everything will be boxed after that ready to be taken to the collection point at Marrickville Town Hall.
Ms G. Kokinelis Dean of Middle School
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παραμονεύει η μοναξιά. Μπορεί η εποχή μας να είναι η εποχή των τέλειων μέσων, της γιγαντιαίας τεχνολογίας, αλλά χαρακτηρίζεται από κάτι ακόμα: στόματα ανθρώπων κλειστά, σφραγισμένα από φόβο ή αδιαφορία. Όλοι μαζί μια απρόσωπη μάζα, ο καθένας ξεχωριστά μια μονάδα στο πλήθος.
GREEK COLUMN Αγαπητοί γονείς και φίλοι, Στην έκδοση αυτή θα σας κρατήσουμε συντροφιά με μία ακόμη εργασία μαθητή της Γ΄ Λυκείου, σχετικά με την μοναξιά και την απομόνωση του σύγχρονου ανθρώπου. Το θέμα αυτό δόθηκε ως θέμα προφορικής εξάσκησης για τους μαθητές που παρακολουθούν το τμήμα των Προχωρημένων Ελληνικών, το λεγόμενο Modern Greek Extension Course.
Νιώθουμε μόνοι μέσα στην κοινωνία μας επειδή οι σχέσεις μας με τους άλλους ανθρώπους είναι εντελώς επιφανειακές, προσαρμοσμένες στον κώδικα των τυπικών κανόνων συμπεριφοράς. Αιτίες που οδηγούν στην απομόνωση ενός ατόμου είναι: κάποιος θάνατος στην οικογένεια, η αλλαγή εργασίας, το διαζύγιο, η αποχώρηση από το σπίτι για πρώτη φορά ενός μέλους, ο αλκοολισμός, ο εκφοβισμός, η βία, η χρήση ουσιών, η έλλειψη κοινών αξιών στο κοινωνικό περιβάλλον, θρησκευτικές και πολιτικές πεποιθήσεις, αναπηρίες και γενικά η ΔΙΑΦΟΡΕΤΙΚΟΤΗΤΑ.
Καλή ανάγνωση! κα Μ. Φαλέτα Θέμα: Πολλοί νέοι νιώθουν αποξενωμένοι από το κοινωνικό περιβάλλον τους. Συζητήστε. Ο Γάλλος φιλόσοφος Ροζέ Γκαρωντύ έχει γράψει: «Γεννιέμαι γεμάτος από τους άλλους κι όταν συνειδητοποιήσω πως κλείστηκα έξω από τα δικά τους τείχη νιώθω να μου μένει μόνο τούτη η κόλαση της μοναξιάς.»
Η ψευτιά, η υποκρισία και η προσποίηση που χαρακτηρίζουν τις κοινωνικές σχέσεις σήμερα δεν ευνοούν την ανθρώπινη προσέγγιση, την εκδήλωση εμπιστοσύνης και τη δημιουργία φιλικών δεσμών. Το πνεύμα του ανταγωνισμού που υπάρχει στην κοινωνία ευνοεί την αντιπαλότητα και την αποξένωση, που σαν σκουριά φθείρει τις ανθρώπινες σχέσεις.
Ο άνθρωπος είναι κοινωνική προσωπικότητα και επομένως δεν μπορεί να ζήσει μόνος, αποξενωμένος από τους άλλους. Γιατί «άνθρωπος μόνος ή θηρίο είναι ή θεός» κατά την διατύπωση του Αριστοτέλη.
Η αποξένωση μπορεί να επηρεάσει την υγεία ενός ατόμου. Προκαλεί ανασφάλεια και φοβίες και το άτομο αρνείται να υπακούσει σε κανόνες και να συναναστρέφεται.
Ο σύγχρονος άνθρωπος, που ζεί στα αστικά κέντρα αντιμετωπίζει προβλήματα κοινωνικής προσαρμογής. Αισθανόμαστε χωρίς εστία παρότι ζούμε σε ένα μικρό ή μεγάλο διαμέρισμα ή σπίτι. Ζούμε μόνοι, παρόλο που δίπλα μας κινείται πολύς κόσμος. Άνθρωποι πολλοί περπατούν δίπλα μας. Τα βλέμματά μας διασταυρώνονται και ύστερα ο καθένας μας τραβάει το δρόμο του. Έτσι μέσα μας μεγαλώνει η απόσταση που μας χωρίζει από τους άλλους.
Γι’αυτό, τα λόγια του Έλληνα συγγραφέα Αντώνη Σαμαράκη, λόγια που είπε δεκαετίες πριν, είναι σήμερα περισσότερο επίκαιρα από ποτέ: ‘Ποτέ πριν οι στέγες μας δεν ήταν τόσο κοντά και οι καρδιές μας τόσο μακρά!» Austin Papadopoulos Year 11 (Modern Greek Year 12, Extension)
Υπάρχουν άτομα –κυρίως νέοι - που βρίσκονται στο περιθώριο της κοινωνικής τους ομάδας. Αναζητώντας τα βασικά αίτια αυτού του φαινομένου, διαπιστώνει κανείς ότι ο ρυθμός της ζωής είναι αγχωτικός. Όλοι τρέχουν «.. να προλάβουν ...» και δυστυχώς, μετά το άγχος, 18
The U15 boys were up against a very strong St Andrews Team, a team that was undefeated. I was particularly impressed to see the boys match it with the St Andrews boys particularly in the first half. I was also pleased with the effort and intensity they displayed throughout the game. Despite their resilience, they were eventually outscored primarily because of the weight of possession and their opponents’ success in converting points easily, when in transition from defence to attack. The team lost the game 26-14.
SPORTS COLUMN BOYS SPORTS In all team sporting pursuits we often advocate and rely heavily on team dynamics and performance to help the team achieve all round success. To suggest that one person makes the difference is profoundly misguided. Our boys basketball teams were evidence of this notion, this idea that success is stirred by the desire to do well and in a team environment that often equates to everyone pushing a claim to be the best they can. On Saturday 10th March the School’s U14, U15, U17 and First V competed in the division 3 Basketball finals. This would be a memorable day for the School. Once again the School’s teams pursued excellence and the day begun very well with the U14 Boys defeating Oxley College 38-28. It seemed destined the boys would achieve the ultimate goal of winning a final, particularly after their relentless start to the game. The boys were exceptional, taking an early unassailable lead after only 10 minutes of the first half. This was followed by a flurry of points and the Oxley team really had no answer, especially as Franklin Pyliotis outsmarted his opposite number in defence. Franklin essentially starved the Oxley team of possession by taking out his opposite number who was their power forward. Congratulations to all the team, their coach Mr Tsoustas and to all families who supported on final’s day. Thank you and congratulations.
The U17 boys started slowly and were trailing at one stage by 11 points. The boys did well to come back from this deficit to take the lead with 3 minutes remaining. Unfortunately, the boys were unable to hold out the St Patricks team who really imposed themselves and finished the game the stronger because of their excellent finishing, winning the game 31-27. I take this opportunity to commend and thank all the U17 boys and in particular the year 12 boys who played their last game for the school. I also thank the coach of the U17 Mr Karagiannis for his professionalism, dedication and commitment to the sports programme over the last 6 seasons. Much of the Schools success in boys’ basketball can be attributed to Mr Karagiannis and Mr Koulouriotis who have helped shape the basketball landscape in boys’ sport that we all enjoy.
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because their peers in the 17s had suffered defeat. Congratulations to the Open boys and their coach Mr T. Koulouriotis. It has been a memorable season and one that will not easily be forgotten.
In the last edition of the newsletter, I did hint at the prospect of a very tight game and mentioned that whichever team could keep their wits would be the eventual winner. For most of the game, our FIRST V boys were dominant. However, it was far from our best game with easy turnovers and at times missed opportunities that in other occasions would have easily counted as points.
In closing I commend all the boys. I salute the teams, their coaches and all families for their support and encouragement throughout the year. Congratulations to all the Boys basketball teams for season 2017- 2018.
Despite this, our boys took the lead in every quarter, this was largely based on the excellent shooting by Alexandros Gousetis as well as Nathan Adam. The final quarter was definitely heart stopping with our boys at one stage skipping to a 6 point gap that quickly became 2. From there, what transpired was truly a very emotional and actioned packed last 2 minutes. Our boys gathered their thoughts and secured the ball. With the shot clock against both teams our boys could not consolidate and neither could the Blue Mountains team. This backwards and forwards shift went on for some time until the final 24 seconds with our boys securing the ball, chewing up the clock until team fouls caught up with the opposition, sending Alexandros to the free throw line. Success beckoned and victory was secured with 0.9 seconds remaining. Nowhere near enough time for the opposition to score the three points needed to win. The final score was St Spyridon 42- BMGS 39
SWIMMING It is no coincidence that our swimming programme has flourished over the last 5 years. It is no coincidence that our students are enjoying what I would like to call a golden era in the sport for the College. This has been the culmination of an elaborate programme, with the goal of maximising student participation and attempting to improve the overall standing of the School among the other ISA schools, the culmination of which has resulted in success in the pool for all students. For this reason, to mention individuals would be an injustice to the real success and drive of this programme, a programme that the school begun some time ago and that relies on many various parts for its success. That is to say, first and foremost, thank you to all our families who endure cold early mornings and late afternoons to help their child/children to strive for success in a sport where the smallest difference can mean success or being nearly successful.
Celebrations erupted and the boys deservingly had their victory and the perfect season. Undefeated premiers and champions. It was a bitter sweet moment for the Year 12 boys who had secured victory for the First V team, but still they were reflective and measured
In addition, the introduction by the PE department of an intensive Year 7 swimming 20
programme, is a programme that helps to condition the students to aspire and achieve success, at not only our school swimming carnival but at the ISA level.
many boys as possible to qualify for the ISA representative team. So how did we fare? The momentous occasion did not deter our youngest students, our boys in Year 7- 9. The youngest members of the College were outstanding. They were resilient; they stood tall and were all outstanding in the pool. As our Junior team they placed an amazing 4th in Division 1. An accomplishment, that did not go unnoticed and the boys must be credited with this fantastic team result.
The inclusion of a Swimming Invitational Carnival in the sports calendar, also gives credence to our success in recent years in the pool. This in conjunction, with the inclusion of anywhere between 6-8 swimming training sessions before school leading up to our representative season, furthers our students’ exposure to swimming, all of which benefits the very people we seek to equip.
Our Intermediate Boys that is the U15 - U16 boys team, were up against some very strong opposition in the pool. While they placed 7th out of 9, it must be noted that they too showed strength of character and resolve to attempt to mix it with the best.
I am also crediting the hard work and efforts of our junior school who are always looking to further pursue sporting excellence in the pool for our younger students. It is with enthusiasm and a real passion for future success, that we are working together to improve the swimming programme of the school.
Our Senior Team the U17 and over group were also outstanding. We had new members to the U17 team with Connor Giavis returning to the pool as well as Manny Giokas. I could not be any prouder of their efforts to compete against students from other schools who train endlessly for these events.
Not forgetting the support and guidance of our Schools’ Head of College, Mrs Stefanou as well as our Senior School Principal, Mrs Katsogiannis, and Mrs Synesios, Principal of the Junior School.
I also commend Nicholas Frazis and Dean Albanakis, our two Year 12 boys who despite having Year 12 examinations still managed to attend to support the schools swimming programme, a true testament of their passion for not only swimming but their School.
As a sport, swimming at the College has evolved because of these many initiatives, many being the operative word. The vision for strengthening the swimming programme highlights the great success story of swimming at the College. For this reason I take this opportunity to thank all our families who pursue swimming as a sport for their child/ren, I extend my thanks to the PE department and sports people for their relentless desire to help and assist our students excel and of course to our Junior School who continue to look for engaging ways to strengthen our younger students and prepare them for more success in the pool.
Have the boys achieved their goal? In the final wash up the result was clear. Our boys finished in 8th place out of 9 schools. It seems that goal 1 had been achieved. And what about our chances in getting a number of boys to progress to the next round? It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to mention that: Matija Gacevic qualified for the 50m breaststroke event, with a number of other boys unlucky not to qualify in a number of closely contested races.
At this year’s carnival we acknowledge that our boys competed in the Division 1 competition, that is to say our school ranked in top 9 from 18 schools in the ISA. Our team goal would be twofold to try and remain in the premier competition and secondly to strive to get as
Like all endeavours, we now need to look ahead and manage how best to keep on improving and I know that this will invariably require further 21
careful planning and management in order to achieve even further success. New school records broken at the ISA: Matija Gacevic (50m Breaststroke) broke his own school record of 38.08 to record a new school record of 38.04.
Intermediate Girls who consist of Year 10 students have had a remarkable season. This group of girls are most certainly the future of St Spyridon Basketball. Coaching them has been the most rewarding experience of all my years coaching. The girls are determined to not only win but they are eager to learn and improve their skills to be the best of their ability. Their efforts this season against top Division 1 schools has been challenging yet beneficial for the development of their game. Neither did they shy away from the challenges presented to them and at the commencement of each game to the final whistle. Unfortunately the girls were defeated by Central Coast Grammar School 24-19 however the lessons they have learnt this season are invaluable and are sure to be an asset in the years to come.
GIRLS SPORT ISA GIRLS BASKETBALL FINALS Last Saturday, 10th March, we had 3 girls Basketball teams compete at the 2017/18 ISA Basketball Grand finals. Open C girls who consist of Year 11 and Kaliope Mentis from Year 12 who played Oakhill College seconds. These girls played in true spirit all season and most certainly improved their skills and competitive strategy throughout the season. Unfortunately, the result did not end up favourable as we were defeated 16-4. Credit to all the girls for their relentless effort against much taller opponents. Thank you, to Mr Vergotis who dedicated his time over the season for morning trainings, ISA lessons and every Saturday. Without his support the girls would not have qualified for the Finals and no doubt their skills would not have improved. Your contribution has not gone unnoticed and I know the girls were grateful for the support you showed them.
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Wednesday 14th March 2018. This event gave all students the opportunity to represent St Spyridon College and showcase their swimming abilities at a much larger scale against many other Independent Schools. This year St Spyridon College were the hosts of this event and coincidently it ended up being one the most successful meets for the girls in our schools history.
Junior C girls have excelled in their first year of Basketball given that the basic skills such as dribbling were foreign to many. As the weeks progressed this girls thirst to learn and drive to win resulted in a very successful debut season. To qualify for an ISA Final in their first year of Basketball is a credit to all the girls and their coach Cassandra Georgiou. Unfortunately, the girls were defeated by Central Coast Grammar School a very strong Basketball school.
For the girls success in the pool comes in waves and much of this is due to an individual’s desire to train outside of the school environment. Although some of the girls do train regularly outside the school for many the school carnival is about participating, having fun and most importantly doing their best in each race, qualifying for the school swim team is most certainly a bonus. Fortunately for the students who qualified for the team they were provided with training sessions at All Sorts Pool in order to prepare for the ISA Carnival. Ms Flokis with the help of Nicholas Frazis of Year 12 held the sessions twice a week with the intention to create a team environment and rectify any technical issues which may enable the students to improve. This most certainly proved successful with majority of individual team members improving on their existing times achieved at the school carnival. Congratulations to all the 2017/18 ISA Basketball players and coaches. Thank you, to Ms Flokis for her support at all home games and Semi-Finals and Finals and Rhea Tsimboukis for her attendance at the Finals to support the girls.
Below are some highlights of the girl’s individual results:
ISA WINTER SPORT
Final trials for Girls Football and Netball are close to concluding. The girls would have received their registration forms, these need to be handed back signed and completed as soon as possible and all parents need to sign up to the Team App for their relevant sport to receive further communication.
ISA SWIMMING
After much preparation the ISA Swimming Squad attended the ISA Swimming Carnival held at Homebush Aquatic Centre last 23
Natalia Amezquita- 18yrs - 2nd 50m Freestyle Victoria Zois – 18yrs – 2nd 50m Freestyle Lena Tsalikis 16yrs 1st- 50m Freestyle B, 2nd – 50m Breaststroke B Desi Kapodistrias –16yrs 2nd- 50m and 100m Freestyle A, 1st- 50m Breaststroke and Butterfly, 2nd 50m Backstroke Jasmin Moros- 13yrs- 1st 50m Freestyle B, 2nd 50m Breaststroke B, 3rd 100m Freestyle Anthea Preketes – 12yrs – 1st 50m and 100m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke and Butterfly
Rhea Tsimboukis- 18yrs- 3rd 50m Breaststroke Kaity Bounos – 18yrs 3rd 50m Backstroke Athanasia Manos – 12yrs 2nd 50 m Backstroke Natalia Fountoulis – 3rd 50m Backstroke Multi Class, 2nd 50m Butterfly Nicola Skouteris- 15yrs 3rd - 50m Breaststroke A Victoria Xylas – 14yrs- 2nd 50m Breaststroke B Eleni Haralambides- 14yrs 1st - 50m Breaststroke A , 3rd 50m Backstroke Christina Vlahos - breaking the 17yrs 50m Butterfly with a time of 44.94. rd
Junior Medley Relay- 3 , Freestyle Relay 3 Intermediate Medley Relay – 2nd Relay 3rd
The Junior girls in particular performed outstanding finishing 1st in the Junior Division the first time in the school’s history.
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Freestyle
Senior Medley Relay - 3rd and Freestyle Relay 4th
Furthermore another first in the schools sporting history was finishing 1st Overall in Division 2 and ultimately resulting in promotion to Division 1 for 2019. The results were extremely close only winning by a small margin of 8 points. It is important to acknowledge the contribution of all girls as not one student failed to meet the expectations required of them on the day. This change in attitude and self-belief was the driving force to our success on the day. St 24
Spyridon College has the reputation for constantly challenging the larger schools despite our size. This was demonstrated particularly from our youngest members from Year 7, Gabriella Guerrera competed as a 17 years old the whole day despite only being 13 years old and Sophia Karatasos another 13 years old and Adriana Drakoulis a 14 years old both swimming up as 15 years old participants. Initially, the girls were uncertain that they were good enough to meet this challenge but they did not shy away from the challenge and ultimately their contribution resulted in the much needed points to win the overall Division 2 championship.
Eleni Haralambides – 14yrs 50m Breaststroke
Natalia Fountoulis – Multi Class 50m Freestyle 50m Backstroke
Anthea Preketes – 12 yrs 50m Freestyle 50m Backstroke 50m Butterfly 100m Freestyle I would like to acknowledge the Year 12 swimmers Rhea Tsimboukis, Victoria Zois, Kaity Bounos and especially Natalia Amezquita for their outstanding representation to swimming over their years at the college. Their presence will be missed.
Congratulations to all the boys on their well deserving success in Division 1. Perhaps most pleasing was observing the high level of school spirit displayed by the students as they all cheered from the stands, praised each other upon return from their races and represented their school with pride and passion.
Congratulations to the following girls who qualified for the ISA Swim Team who will compete at the NSWCIS Swimming th Championships on Wednesday 4 April and Thursday 5th May. We wish them good luck. Desi Kapodistrias – 16yrs 50m Backstroke 200m Freestyle 200m Butterfly 200m Backstroke 100m Butterfly 100m Breaststroke 100m Backstroke
Much thanks must extend to Mrs Kefalouros and the Year 11 students who assisted in the hosting of the ISA Swimming Carnival, ISA member schools acknowledged their efforts and praised them for their outstanding contribution on the day.
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Ms K. O’Shea Girls Sport
Mr F. Kaldis Boys Sport
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Please return to the front office or email: juniorschool@stspyridon.nsw.edu.au
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